Unemployment Claims Stay Low as Continuing Claims Rise to 1.716 Million
Initial unemployment claims slipped to 197,000 in the week ending October 3, while continuing claims rose to 1.716 million in the week ending September 26. The October 8 Department of Labor release points to a labor market with few new layoffs but a slower path back into work for some people who have lost jobs.
Key takeaways Initial claims fell by 2,000 to 197,000 in the week ending October 3, 2026, according to the Department of Labor. Continuing claims increased by 17,000 to 1.716 million in the week ending September 26, 2026. The four-week averages moved lower for both measures, but initial claims were revised upward for the prior week. Claims data argue against a sudden wave of layoffs, w…
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